BMC Approves ₹3.64 Crore For Two More Unmanned Boats To Remove Floating Waste From Mumbai Coastline

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has approved funding for the deployment of two additional unmanned boats aimed at mechanically removing floating debris and trash from Mumbai's coastline. This technology-driven waste removal initiative is part of the city and port authorities' ongoing environmental cleanup efforts. The approved budget for the project amounts to ₹3.64 crore.

Two unmanned electric boats have already been deployed at key locations such as the Gateway of India and Badhwar Park. These vessels are capable of collecting approximately 80 to 90 kg of floating debris daily. The innovative approach has been welcomed by corporator Makarand Narwekar, who highlighted that physically collecting garbage would take more time compared to using these remote-controlled or autonomous electric/solar-powered boats.

The boats operate within a range of around 500 meters and are equipped with battery operation along with solar panels. The BMC's Solid Waste Management department is currently in the process of finalizing the tender conditions for the project, which will be announced soon. The BMC has taken the lead among Indian civic bodies in employing modern technology to maintain the cleanliness of the coastline and its surrounding areas.

Through the use of these unmanned boats, the BMC aims to enhance the aesthetic appeal for tourists visiting Mumbai, while also reducing the presence of plastic pollution in the sea.